Cooking Influencer Dies in ‘Horrible Incident’ While Traveling in Texas: ‘Came Without Warning’

Influencer Michael Duarte, who created cooking content under the name “FoodWithBearHands” died on Saturday, November 8 while traveling in Texas.

“It is with a heavy heart that we share the sad news that Michael Duarte passed away in a horrible incident,” family friend Nena Petricca wrote on a GoFundMe page about the California-based chef, who starting posting cooking videos online during the pandemic.

“Michael’s death occurred just three short days after he and his wife celebrated their 9 year wedding anniversary,” the post continued.

His cause of death was not given, but Petricca wrote that “this heartbreak came without warning.”

Duarte’s talent agency, Alooma Media Group, also shared the news. “His warmth, kindness, and generosity were felt in every interaction, and he had a way of making everyone around him feel valued and inspired,” they wrote in an Instagram post on Saturday, November 9.

“Michael’s passing is a tremendous loss to all who knew him. His legacy of integrity, compassion, and dedication will continue to live on through the lives he touched.”

He leaves behind wife Jessica and 6-year-old daughter Oakley.

Fans flooded Duarte’s Instagram with condolences, many sharing personal memories of how he had helped them in times of need.

“The barbecue/cooking community was just rocked to its core,” wrote one. “So many people are fighting battles we know nothing about. Be there for your people.”